COST OF LIVING HAS SKYROCKETED: VIJITHA HERATH

COLOMBO (News 1st): Ever since the incumbent government came into power, the prices of essential goods have risen exponentially within a short span of time, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna MP - Vijitha Herath said on Thursday (Dec. 24). "By November 20th, 2019, the price of a kilo of Samba rice was Rs. 95, and today it ranges between 132 and 140 rupees, where it has risen by Rs. 37," Vijitha Herath told reporters. According to the JVP Parliamentarian, a kilo of Nadu rice, which was at Rs. 95 is now between 104 and 110; White Kekulu rice was at Rs. 95 rupees, now it is 100 while Red Kekulu rice, which was at Rs. 95 is now at 98. "Five gazettes alone relating to rice have been published since this government assumed power," Vijitha Herath further said. The Parliamentarian went onto note that imported big onions, which used to be Rs. 147 per kilo, is now Rs 160; dried chilies, which was Rs. 480, is now Rs. 550, adding that it is a difference of 70 rupees. Commenting on the prices of coconut, MP Vijitha Herath said a coconut which cost Rs. 58 is around 110 to 120 rupees. He further said by the time the government assumed duties, Dhal which was at Rs. 110, now costs more than Rs. 180 and at times costs Rs. 220 rupees, which is an increase of 70 rupees. Furthermore, the Parliamentarian said a bottle of coconut oil, which cost Rs. 320, now costs Rs. 480, meaning the price has gone up by 160 rupees. According to Vijitha Herath, a kilo of Sugar which was at Rs. 100 is now Rs. 125, while Sprats that cost Rs. 600, now costs Rs. 850, which is a difference of 250 rupees. "These were the results of the incumbent government after being in power for just one year adding in one year, the situation has worsened to the point people are unable to afford the cost of living," JVP MP Vijitha Herath reiterated.